By the ways of the Lagoon - 3-5 Days

Traveling between Óbidos and Arelho is like embarking on a true journey through time, following the course of the Arnóia River—the lifeblood that, since ancient times, has allowed communities to settle and great civilizations to flourish in this region. With us, you’ll discover how the stunning Óbidos Lagoon, which today enchants us with its 7 km², was once ten times larger, stretching beyond the castle’s imposing walls.

A Journey Through Time and History
In this exclusive experience, we’ll guide you through a landscape where natural beauty blends with the traces left by the Celts and Romans, making this journey a true paradise for lovers of culture and regions with deep-rooted traditions. With the mystical silhouette of Óbidos Castle almost always serving as a backdrop, we’ll uncover unforgettable historical landmarks:

Secrets of Faith and Tradition: Admire the architecture and serenity of the Chapel of Santo André in Arelho and the monumental Sanctuary of Senhor da Pedra. Perched atop Outeiro Hill, the Chapel of Santo Antão offers one of the most exclusive and photogenic views of the castle.

Traces of the Past and Evolution: Travel back to the era of the Roman Empire as you explore the ruins of the ancient city of Eburobrittium, and stop at the charming Óbidos Train Station, which preserves memories of journeys from days gone by.

The Power of Nature: Immerse yourself in the scenic surroundings near the Arnóia River Dam, the perfect spot to appreciate the biodiversity and engineering that have shaped the growth of this region adjacent to the lagoon.

After delving into the region’s deep historical roots, we invite you to change pace and connect with the area through an invigorating nature tourism experience. This day is dedicated to contemplating and actively enjoying the region’s scenic heritage, challenging you to explore the nature trails and the stunning waters of Óbidos Lagoon in a completely sustainable and healthy way.

The Green Route: From the Town of Óbidos to Poça da Ferraria
Our journey begins with the comfort of cycling along the beautiful Várzea da Rainha Ecopista, a flat and immersive route designed for those who want to enjoy nature at a leisurely pace.

Where the Rivers Meet: We head toward Poça da Ferraria, the magical and serene spot where the Rio Real joins the Rio Arnóia, nurturing the biodiversity that makes this place unique.

Natural Symphony (Birdwatching): Along the way, your senses will be awakened as you observe countless species of birds. Thanks to the lagoon’s strategic location on migratory routes, the fall, winter, and spring seasons transform this route into a living spectacle that wildlife lovers won’t want to miss.

Between the Shores and the Water: The Authentic Fishing Village
The second half of the day brings us even closer to the water, culminating in the unique and authentic Fishing Village, where time seems to move more slowly and local fishing traditions come to life.

Interpretive Shorelines: The trails that run along the lagoon’s shores serve as an open-air museum, perfect for enjoying on a bike ride or an interpretive walk tailored to your pace.

A World of Water Sports Possibilities: For the more adventurous, the vast and safe expanse of water at Óbidos Lagoon is the ideal setting to round out the day. Under our guidance, this stop opens the door to unique experiences such as stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, or sailing, offering excellent conditions for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.

To round out this wonderful day, we invite you on a journey of pure contemplation, where the secrets of geology, the traces of prehistory, and the immensity of the ocean come together. The meeting of fresh and salt water has always attracted wildlife to this area, and today we invite you to discover that the natural heritage of Óbidos Lagoon extends far beyond what the eye can see today, it holds the timeless memories of our planet.

Traces of the Earth and the Geological Past
Our expedition begins in the iconic Serra do Bouro (municipality of Caldas da Rainha), a region distinguished by its vast and diverse array of landscapes sculpted by time.

Footprints Millions of Years Old: We begin our journey at the impressive Bouro Fossil Site, where you’ll have the rare opportunity to see spectacular dinosaur footprints that bear witness to the region’s distant past.

Nature’s Sculptures: Let yourself be amazed by significant geological landmarks along the way, with special mention of the imposing Penedo Furado, a unique rock formation that defies gravity and the Atlantic wind.

The Spectacle of the Ecosystem and the Ocean Horizon
Walking toward the municipality of Óbidos, the trail embraces the vibrant beauty of the lagoon and culminates at the stunning Olhos de Água Beach.

The Spectacle of the Ecosystem and the Sea Horizon
Heading toward the municipality of Óbidos, the trail takes in the vibrant beauty of the lagoon and culminates at the stunning Olhos de Água Beach.

The Wildlife Sanctuary: As we approach the shores, we make room to contemplate a rich ecosystem. Guided by us to the region’s best viewpoints, you’ll be able to spot the fascinating local birdlife, where the elegance of the gray heron, the mallard, the oystercatcher, and even the surprising flamingos paint the landscape in an unforgettable way.

Where the Waters Meet: Marvel at the famous “Aberta”, the natural channel where the lagoon and the sea connect and renew their energies. The experience ends with your feet in the sand at Olhos de Água Beach, offering you a breathtaking landscape with an unparalleled view of the mystical Berlengas archipelago on the horizon.